Ms. Jones, can I sharpen my pencil?

I'm slowly finding out that I have a knack for this teaching stuff. There are so many things about institute that are artificial, like the amount of sleep we get, the support we have, etc. Even though I know that will all be different when I go back to Memphis, I know that I'll do a great job because something inside of me loves teaching and is good at it.

I'm going to share a quick, beautiful moment form today.

Christian. He's the cutest little boy you've ever seen. So well-behaved. So eager to learn. He always has his hands raised, he always wants to participate. The thing is, Christian is reading on a kindergarten-first grade level. He can't understand the words on the worksheets I pass out. Even though he raises his hand, when I call on him he looks down and smiles shyly. Baby just can't read. Yet.

Today I split my class into groups to read Mister and Me and do fill in a graphic organizer. Christian was sitting beside Jeremy. I was casually walking among the students in case they needed my help when I stopped at Christian's desk. He looked up and saw me standing there and said "I always want to sit by Jeremy because he's so smart. He's helping me read these questions. The look on Jeremy's face was proud and humble at the same time. He said, I'm just showing him how to read the words. He then looked down at the worksheet and moved his fingers under the words while reading softly. I was so incredibly touched by this exchange between my babies. This is why I'm here. Jeremy is around grade level, but Christian is significantly below. Jeremy sensed that and took on responsibility for his friend. He was Christian's advocate today. I wanted to put on a parade for them! they get it!

I wish I could post pictures of my babies on here, but 1. I don't have any, and 2. I'm not sure if that's legal. I'll have some tomorrow, though.

If you enjoy the blog and want to help the cause, donate some educational reward-y things to my classroom. (BOOKS! Activity Books!, Pencils, etc.) Our theme is race cars. I'd also appreciate some regular ole letters. Hand write them. Bombard me with them. Here's my address:

Amber Jones/Corps Member
Teach for America, Delta State University
1003 W. Sunflower Rd.
Box B4
Cleveland, MS 38733